Microsoft revamps Teams app with new user interface and faster performance

Microsoft has released a new preview version of Teams app that promises to deliver faster performance, better memory usage, and a fresh look. Microsoft claims that the new Teams app is 2X faster and uses 50 percent less memory than the classic version, which has a reputation for being slow and resource hungry.

The classic client of Microsoft Teams relied on open-source software such as Electron for the hosting, AngularJS for the web development framework, and custom controls constructed using HTML and CSS. In contrast, the new Teams app uses WebView2 as the host and React/Fluent as the framework.

The new Microsoft Teams app also features a redesigned user interface that supports Windows 11 Mica translucency effect and fluid animations. The new app supports dark mode and high-contrast settings that behave commonly across Microsoft 365 products. Moreover, Microsoft is bringing group profile pictures and group theming to Teams.

In addition to the performance and UI improvements, the new Teams app also enables new AI-powered experiences that will enhance collaboration and productivity. These include intelligent meeting recaps that summarize key points and actions from a meeting and Copilot for Teams, which provides Smart suggestions and assistance.

The company has started to roll out the preview build of the new Microsoft Teams app for Windows users. Users in the public preview program can try out the new Teams app by enabling a toggle at the top left corner of the Teams app. A pop-up dialogue will open, and users need to click the Get it now button. The new Teams app will start installing. Microsoft plans to release the new Teams app later this year for all users.